The Housing Situation in Antigonish

Antigonish, has an essence of a small-town warmth and with a blend of academic ambitions. At the center of is a place where students from all around the world converge in pursuit of their dreams. But like many university towns, Antigonish presents a challenge that every prospective student must face – the housing question.

Finding suitable accommodation can be a meticulous task for both domestic and international students, particularly during the peak of the academic year which comes sometime around spring time of each year, it is a time when new students both domestic and international students converge at this place to fulfill their ambitions of studying at a prestigious university and achieve their academic pursuits. 

The rental market within the town is competitive, with a noticeable mild shortage of affordable options catering specifically to our student needs. Apartments in convenient locations close to campus tend to fill up quickly, often leaving those new to the scene on the backfoot and settling for less-than-ideal housing or facing substantial commutes.

For those seeking a little more integrated on-campus living experience, St. Francis Xavier University offers a variety of residence options. Traditional dormitory-style accommodations provide a built-in community and the shortest walk to class, but these coveted spots are very limited and often subject to a first come first serve based system. The university also manages a number of apartment-style residences, offering a touch more autonomy and living space. However, these options often come with a higher price tag and can still be fiercely competitive.

Despite the challenges, securing affordable housing in Antigonish isn't impossible. Proactive students begin their search early, scouring online listings in Facebook marketplaces, also among different existing pages within Facebook specifically dedicated to the rentals available in Antigonish, university resources, and social media groups dedicated to housing for leads. For some, the answer lies in shared accommodations, dividing the cost of a larger rental with roommates or seeking out homestay situations with local families. Others broaden their search radius by considering apartments in surrounding communities, balancing commute time against rental costs. Most of the international students begin their search through networking. Since the process for them after getting an offer letter from the university becomes exciting, they often face challenges during the finding a suitable accommodation for them specifically suited to their financial aspects. Since they are new and need new guidance, the town combined with the existing students and the support system of the university provide an excellent opportunity for students looking to find an off campus accommodation. 

As international students settle in, the financial realities of studying abroad become starkly clear. Fortunately, Canada's relatively high minimum wage offers a glimmer of hope for those in need of supplemental income. However, students must remember that international student visas place restrictions on the number of hours they may work off-campus each week (in some cases, since the restrictions have now been lifted till April 2024). This makes it especially important to target part-time jobs with flexible hours designed around student schedules.

On-campus employment can be a lifesaver, often providing more accommodating work schedules and, in some cases, even relevant experience in one's field of study. Positions like peer tutors, research assistants, or library staff allow students to earn money while further developing their skills and building their resumes.

Antigonish itself offers a modest range of part-time job opportunities, particularly in the service and retail sectors. The town's main street is lined with independent businesses, cafes, and restaurants – many of which welcome the extra pair of hands that students can provide. Although the pay might not be the highest, these jobs offer valuable work experience and the chance to interact with the local Antigonish community.

The university, as the lifeblood of the town, also generates opportunities for students. From cafeteria work to assisting with campus events, there's always a need for a helping hand. Departments often hire student workers, and keen students can even approach professors about assisting with research projects. Word of mouth is a powerful tool; networking, applying online, and regularly checking the university's job board are key to staying ahead of the pack and gain the required hours for students to make their way through university. 

Life at X! International Student Version

In the heart of Nova Scotia, the decision to make Antigonish and StFX my academic goals, stands as one of the most enthralling choices I've made to date. From the moment I set foot in this quaint town, saturated in the magnificent glow of the orange sun, I sensed an undeniable magic that went beyond the boundaries of mere geography. The Keating Center, with its top-notch infrastructure, welcomed me, and for the first time, I understood the absolute notion of love at first sight.

The crisp autumn air showcased the true essence of autumn, painting each blade of grass and every leaf in hues that almost seemed almost unreal to me. Everything I saw on social media about the town of Antigonish and StfX was a living reality now. The campus, with its harmony of historical charm and modern vitality, unfolded before me like an endless path of paradise waiting to be walked. It wasn't just a university; it was a manifestation of community, a living reality to the intricate dance between old traditions and the rhythm of a university student life in perfect sync. I soon discovered that it was more than a scenic backdrop, rather it was a wide array woven with historical richness and reverberating with modern day’s ethos. Its top-notch infrastructure, a perfect blend of timeless elegance and modern functionality, reverberated in the footsteps of the students and the people of the town, who walked its streets in eras long past, was in perfect harmony with the vibrant energy of student life.

Walking the StFX campus felt like a journey through a cultural crossroads. In the classes and lecture halls, students from different corners of Canada and across different countries met, each bringing unique perspectives that transformed academic discourse into a vivid plate of ideas. The university's commitment to inclusivity reverberated through the wide array of student societies, creating a rich and vibrant community that showcased the global diversity it held. Beyond the academic environment, the town of Antigonish revealed a rich heritage rooted in the heartbeat of the Mi'kmaq people. Cultural events painted the town with astounding colors, offering a jaw-dropping glimpse into the everlasting connection between the land and its original inhabitants. The first week was filled with activities and informative sessions, which eased the transition for international students like myself, which nurtured the fear of an international and cultural shock into a sense of belonging.

Antigonish, more than a picturesque locale, emerged as a living testament to the intricate play of heritage and progress. The symbiotic relationship between the town and StFX University showcased the narrative of cultural coupling, where the rich history of the past and the modern day’s environment went together harmoniously to create a perfect sync and dynamic community—a microcosm reflecting Canada's commitment to embracing diversity.

As time unfolded, I realized that StFX not only embraced but actively nurtured the rich cultural identity of Antigonish. The university's collaboration with local organizations reverberated in perfect harmony, weaving a deep relationship that nurtured the shared heritage of campus, town, and the Mi'kmaq.

Venturing beyond academics, my journey into the cultural ethos of StFX deepened through volunteer experiences. From contributing to Kevin's Corner to serving as a Returning Officer for the Students Union, each role became a line in the intricate fabric of my StFX journey. Involvement in various student communities expanded my horizons, revealing an intricate nature of planning within the Students Union that propelled me to exceed my perceived capabilities. These volunteering experiences not only enriched my time at StFX but also fostered a keen insight and vision for the years ahead.

Long before I knew it, I had my first glance at winter in Canada. Though it’s only November, as someone hailing from a moderately hot climate environment, the lowest temperatures I faced was 18 degrees celsius. And I’ve been told it gets as cold as minus 40 on some days, however I look forward to my first winter here and hope I don’t find myself welcoming any frost bites. The landscape, the people, and the experiences blend together, leaving an everlasting mark on the chapter of my university life. With great enthusiasm, I have been in the Town of Antigonish for just about 2 months but yet my journey has always felt like I belong here. I have not known what I have in store for me, for this enthralling, enriching and nurturing journey, I look forward to with great enthusiasm towards the rest of my journey as a student at X and being part of the beautiful town of Antigonish.